Automotive Spoilers vs Wings: A Car-Lover's Debate

AI Thread Summary
The discussion clarifies the distinction between automotive spoilers and wings, emphasizing that a wing is an airfoil designed to generate downforce, while a spoiler disrupts airflow to reduce lift and drag. Participants agree that spoilers create a pocket of stagnant air to spoil lift, particularly in fastback designs, enhancing vehicle stability. The term "spoil" refers to making airflow less efficient, which increases drag but can be beneficial for controlling descent in aviation contexts. The conversation also touches on the implications of airflow efficiency, noting that laminar flow is preferable for lift. Overall, understanding these aerodynamic principles is crucial for car enthusiasts and those studying fluid mechanics.
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What is the difference between an automotive spoiler and an automotive wing? Is there a difference?

My understanding has always been that a wing is an airfoil, and is used to produce downforce, while a spoiler is is just a lip that is used to reduce drag by creating a pocket of stagnant air. This is what people on the car forums seem to think as well. Is there anyone with actual fluid mechanics experience that can give a more insightful perspective into this?
 
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A wing is a wing (an airfoil). Typical use is to create downforce.

A spoiler is there to "spoil" any other flow. The use in airplanes is to "spoil" the lift of the wings, usually to allow a greater descent rate.
On a car there are some obvious uses such as spoiling the underbody flow. One of the most famous applications is to spoil the up-force (lift) created by the common fastback tail
 
olivermsun said:
A wing is a wing (an airfoil). Typical use is to create downforce.

A spoiler is there to "spoil" any other flow. The use in airplanes is to "spoil" the lift of the wings, usually to allow a greater descent rate.
On a car there are some obvious uses such as spoiling the underbody flow. One of the most famous applications is to spoil the up-force (lift) created by the common fastback tail

Thanks for the response!

Could you explain what you mean by "spoil?" I'm currently taking an entry-level fluid mechanics class; I'm not familiar with all the jargon yet.
 
'Spoil' means making the airflow less effiicient for lift and induces drag as well.
Air brakes basically, good for quick descent and landing but otherwise a waste of energy,
Seems to be becoming quite normal for short flights lately.
It may be more fuel efficient to stay at high altitude until descent path has been cleared by ATC?
 
rootone said:
'Spoil' means making the airflow less effiicient for lift and induces drag as well.
Air brakes basically, good for quick descent and landing but otherwise a waste of energy,
Seems to be becoming quite normal for short flights lately

Is that just because it creates turbulence? Laminar flow is better for lift, right?
 

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